5 diabetic-friendly breakfast recipes that are super-delicious

For individuals managing diabetes, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is crucial, especially when it comes to the first meal of the day. Breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day, and choosing the right foods can help stabilise blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy. By choosing whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables, individuals with diabetes can enjoy a variety of tasty breakfast options that promote overall health and well-being. Here are 5 delicious and diabetic-friendly Indian breakfast recipes that are both nutritious and satisfying. (Images courtesy: Canva)

Oats are a nutritious whole grain that is low on the glycaemic index, making them an ideal choice for individuals with diabetes. To prepare oats upma, dry roast oats in a pan until lightly golden. In a separate pan, heat oil and saute mustard seeds, curry leaves, chopped onions, green chillies, and grated ginger. Add diced vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, and cook until tender. Stir in the roasted oats and add water, salt, and turmeric powder. Cook until the oats are soft and the mixture is dry. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Moong dal cheela, also known as lentil pancakes, is a protein-packed breakfast option that is low in carbohydrates and rich in fibre. To make moong dal cheela, soak split yellow moong dal in water for a few hours, then blend it into a smooth batter. Add finely chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and coriander leaves to the batter, along with salt and spices like cumin powder and red chilli powder. Heat a non-stick pan and pour a ladleful of batter onto it, spreading it into a thin circle. Cook until golden brown on both sides, then serve with mint chutney or low-fat yoghurt.

Dalia is a nutritious whole grain that is high in fibre and low in glycaemic index. To prepare vegetable dalia, dry roast dalia in a pan until lightly browned. In a separate pan, heat oil and saute chopped onions, ginger, and garlic until golden brown. Add diced vegetables like carrots, beans, and peas, and cook until tender. Stir in the roasted dalia and add water, salt, and spices like turmeric powder and garam masala. Cook until the dalia is soft and the mixture is thick. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Besan cheela are a popular breakfast option in India that is both delicious and diabetic-friendly. To make besan cheela, mix besan with water to form a smooth batter. Add finely chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and coriander leaves, along with salt and spices like turmeric powder and ajwain. Heat a non-stick pan and pour a ladleful of batter onto it, spreading it into a thin circle. Cook until golden brown on both sides, then serve with mint chutney or low-fat yoghurt.

When it comes to healthy breakfast for diabetics, Idli Sambhar is something that stands out from the rest. This popular South Indian breakfast option is said to be low in glycaemic index and high in protein. To make idli, soak rice and urad dal in water for a few hours, then grind them into a smooth batter. Ferment the batter overnight, then pour it into idli molds and steam until cooked through. Serve hot with sambhar, a flavourful lentil-based vegetable stew, and coconut chutney for a delicious and nutritious breakfast.